If you’ve always fancied getting dressed up and betting on a horse race while drinking Pimm’s in the British sunshine, you’re in luck! We’ve got a list of the best, most affordable (yet fabulous) horse races around the UK that are suitable for tourists. Grab your fascinator and catch the train to one of these British horse races with NationalRail.com!
Doncaster: St. Leger Stakes
Want to witness the world’s oldest classic race? This historical race was inaugurated in the same year as the USA! Plan your trip for the entire September Festival, Ladies Day, Gentlemen’s Day, or the grand finale, The Stakes.
Take the train to Doncaster Interchange on the East Coast Main Line and hop a shuttle bus on race day.
Cheltenham Racecourse: The Showcase
Set in October, The Showcase is usually held on a Friday and Saturday and marks the season opener for this famous racecourse. Witness some of the world’s best show jumping with admissions starting at just £10pp.
Getting there: catch the bus from the Cheltenham Spa Railway Station
Aintree: Becher Chase Day
Visit the world-famous site of The Grand National for their December festival, which features tickets starting at just £15.
Photo credit: Aintree Racecourse
Hop directly off the train at Aintree Station, an easy transfer from Liverpool Central Station.
Yorkshire Ebor Festival
Visit gorgeous York for this August race which spans over a four day festival. With day tickets starting at £10, this is a great race to witness and a stunning British location for a holiday!
Take the shuttle bus from York train station.
Key things to keep in mind when planning on attending a British horse racing event:
- You can’t be overdressed. To figure out what to wear, check the racecourse website for a dress code, and try a Google image search.
- Bring a cash budget. Gambling is fun, and a huge part of race culture, but it’s a good idea to set yourself a limit.
- Plan on walking further than you might expect – so wear heels or shoes that you can walk in! Public transport is readily accessible around the UK, but it’s often backed up around the rural areas where some racecourses are based.
- Pace yourself. The races are during the day time and often involve British-style partying – don’t ruin all that effort you spend getting ready with too much drink!
Ready to place your bets? Get your cheap train tickets from nationalrail.com and enjoy the best (affordable) horse races around the UK!
